Founded in 1284 and granted its royal charter by King Edward I, Peterhouse College is Cambridge’s oldest college, and also its most diminutive in size. Known for its strong tradition of academic excellence in both the arts and sciences, Peterhouse has been described as always having had an intellectual influence out of proportion to its size. Strikingly pretty with extensive flower-filled gardens, it’s located in the city centre of Cambridge and is just a five minute walk to the main tourist attractions, cafes and shops. Along with historic buildings including its atmospheric 13th century dining hall (where meals are taken), its facilities include a 180-seat tiered theatre, a gym, squash and tennis courts and music practice rooms. It counts five Nobel laureates among its alumni, along with the inventors of the jet engine, hovercraft and the concept of a programmable computer!